Regroup, rearrange, reframe

4. Group collections of pottery, candlesticks or other items on a shelving unit, bookcase (left) or mantel. Instead of placing single pieces throughout the home, grouping adds a little more importance to the collection.

5. Rearrange the furniture. Pull sofas and chairs away from the walls, or switch furniture between rooms. Group chairs for easy conversation areas; angle a sofa for a new perspective.

6. Take everything off your bookshelves or fireplace mantel and put only half back. Editing what you have will give you a cleaner look.

7. Reframe family photos. Buy matching frames (or spray-paint mismatched frames all one color) and group on a table or on the wall.

Small changes for big effects

8. Enlarge a small room by hanging a framed mirror on the wall (left). Or buy a large mirror and lean it against the wall in a hallway or room. It reflects light and adds space to an area.

9. Make a window appear larger by hanging extra-long curtain panels above the top of the window. A good rule of thumb is to look at the space above your window and divide it into thirds. A third of the way up is where the rod should go.

10. Change out a rectangular coffee table for two smaller squares, a round one or a glass-topped version, giving the illusion of more space.

Personalize accessories

20. Monogram one throw pillow or a simple white pillowcase for a personal accent on your bed (left).

21. Sew ribbon to pillowcase edges for subtle yet dressy trim.

22. Create a vignette with your favorite coffee-table books. Enjoy gardening? Display garden books on a table with flowers. Prop art against the wall. Love to travel? Group books of your favorite destinations, along with travel keepsakes.